Jack Markell on Local Issues

Delaware Democratic Governor

$7M for Downtown Development Districts

We know revitalizing neighborhoods is an important part of making our streets safer. We can replicate the success other communities have had in strengthening neighborhoods, while also harnessing the attraction that vibrant downtowns hold for talented
young people and innovative small businesses.

To do so, I propose we create "Downtown Development Districts"--a small number of designated areas in our cities that will qualify for development incentives and a host of other benefits in housing and
transportation. Builders looking to make investments in these Districts would receive grants for a percentage of their investment.

I propose dedicating $7 million toward these kinds of projects,
which will leverage tens of millions of dollars in private capital. And more importantly, this program can improve our housing stock and revitalize our downtowns.